U.S. patent application number 15/222076 was filed with the patent office on 2018-02-01 for hinged device with living hinge.
This patent application is currently assigned to Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC. Invention is credited to Esa-Sakari Maatta.
Application Number | 20180032109 15/222076 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59521644 |
Filed Date | 2018-02-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180032109 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Maatta; Esa-Sakari |
February 1, 2018 |
HINGED DEVICE WITH LIVING HINGE
Abstract
A hinge assembly for a multi-part electronic device comprises a
pair of opposing living hinge elements for connecting first and
second parts of the multi-part electronic device. Each hinge
element has a first segment, an intermediate segment and a second
segment, and comprises a first hinged joint positioned at a
junction of the first segment and the intermediate segment and
defining a first hinge axis, and a second hinged joint positioned
at a junction of the second segment and the intermediate segment
and defining a second hinge axis. The second hinged joint is spaced
apart from the first hinged joint by a length of the intermediate
segment. Each of the first and second hinged joints is configured
to permit 180 degrees of rotation. A multi-part electronic device
having a double-acting hinge arrangement is also described.
Inventors: |
Maatta; Esa-Sakari; (Espoo,
FI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC |
Redmond |
WA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Microsoft Technology Licensing,
LLC
Redmond
WA
|
Family ID: |
59521644 |
Appl. No.: |
15/222076 |
Filed: |
July 28, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E05D 5/02 20130101; G06F
1/1618 20130101; H04M 1/022 20130101; G06F 1/1681 20130101; E05D
1/02 20130101; E05Y 2900/606 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 1/16 20060101
G06F001/16; E05D 5/02 20060101 E05D005/02; E05D 1/02 20060101
E05D001/02 |
Claims
1. A hinge assembly for a multi-part electronic device, comprising:
a pair of opposing living hinge elements for connecting first and
second parts of the multi-part electronic device, each hinge
element having a first segment, an intermediate segment and a
second segment and comprising: a first hinged joint positioned at a
junction of the first segment and the intermediate segment and
defining a first hinge axis, and a second hinged joint positioned
at a junction of the second segment and the intermediate segment
and defining a second hinge axis, the second hinged joint being
spaced apart from the first hinged joint by a length of the
intermediate segment, wherein each of the first and second hinged
joints is configured to permit 180 degrees of rotation.
2. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein the intermediate segment
and the first segment are rotatable relative to each other into a
first overlapped configuration in which the intermediate segment
contacts and overlaps the first segment, and wherein the
intermediate segment and the second segment are rotatable relative
to each other into a second overlapped configuration in which the
intermediate segment contacts and overlaps the second segment.
3. The hinge assembly of claim 2, wherein the first and second
overlapped configurations include comprise complementing curved or
angled surfaces that nest together.
4. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein the first segment is
configured for fixed attachment to the first part of the device,
the second segment is configured for fixed attachment to the second
part of the device, and the intermediate segment extends freely
between the first segment and the second segment.
5. The hinge assembly of claim 4, wherein the intermediate segment
of a first of the pair of opposing living hinge elements and the
intermediate segment of a second of the pair of opposing living
hinge elements are arranged in a crossing relationship relative to
each other when viewed along one of the hinge axes, and wherein the
crossing relationship maintains a predetermined distance between
each first segment and the respective second segment.
6. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein the first segment and the
second segment have respective openings sized for receiving
fasteners to secure the first and second segments to the respective
first and second parts of the electronic device.
7. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the first segment
and the second segment is configured for attachment to the
electronic device at a recessed mounting position recessed from
respective outer surfaces of the electronic device.
8. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the first segment
and the second segment comprises a sheet configured for attachment
to an outer surface of the electronic device.
9. A multi-part electronic device, comprising: at least a first
device part and a second device part connected by a double acting
hinge arrangement, the first device part having a first display
side and a first opposite side, and the second part having a second
display side and a second opposite side, and at least a first pair
of opposing living hinge elements for connecting the first and
second device parts, each hinge element having a first segment, an
intermediate segment and a second segment and comprising: a first
hinged joint positioned at a junction of the first segment and the
intermediate segment and defining a first hinge axis, and a second
hinged joint positioned at a junction of the second segment and the
intermediate segment and defining a second hinge axis, the second
hinged joint being spaced apart from the first hinged joint by a
length of the intermediate segment, wherein each of the first and
second hinged joints is configured to permit 180 degrees of
rotation.
10. The multi-part electronic device of claim 9, wherein the
intermediate segment and the first segment are rotatable relative
to each other into a first overlapped configuration in which the
intermediate segment contacts and overlaps the first segment, and
wherein the intermediate segment and the second segment are
rotatable relative to each other into a second overlapped
configuration in which the intermediate segment contacts and
overlaps the second segment.
11. The multi-part electronic device of claim 10, wherein the first
and second overlapped configurations include comprise complementing
curved or angled surfaces that nest together.
12. The multi-part electronic device of claim 9, wherein the first
segment is configured for fixed attachment to the first device
part, the second segment is configured for fixed attachment to the
second device part, and the intermediate segment extends freely
between the first segment and the second segment.
13. The multi-part electronic device of claim 12, wherein the
intermediate segment of a first of the pair of opposing living
hinge elements and the intermediate segment of a second of the pair
of opposing living hinge elements are arranged in a crossing
relationship relative to each other when viewed along one of the
hinge axes, and wherein the crossing relationship maintains a
predetermined distance between each first segment and the
respective second segment.
14. The multi-part electronic device of claim 9, wherein the first
segment and the second segment are connected to the first and
second device parts, respectively, with fasteners.
15. The multi-part electronic device of claim 9, wherein the length
of the intermediate section is sized according to a depth of the
first and second device parts.
16. The multi-part electronic device of claim 9, wherein each of
the first segment and the second segment is configured for
attachment to the electronic device at a recessed mounting position
recessed from respective outer surfaces.
17. The multi-part electronic device of claim 9, further comprising
a first magnetic element positioned in the first device part and a
second magnetic element positioned in the second device part,
wherein the first and second magnetic elements are positioned
adjacent the living hinge elements and configured to attract each
other when the device is an open position and to apply an open
position force tending to keep the device in the open position.
18. The multi-part electronic device of claim 17, wherein one of
the first and second magnetic elements comprises a magnet and the
other comprises a magnetic material.
19. The multi-part electronic device of claim 18, further
comprising at least two soft iron plates positioned on opposite
sides of the magnet and configured to concentrate the magnet's
magnetic flux generally within the associated device part.
20. A multi-part electronic device, comprising: at least a first
device part and a second device part connected by a hinge
arrangement, the first device part having a first display side and
a first opposite side, and the second part having a second display
side and a second opposite side, and at least a first pair of
opposing living hinge elements for connecting the first and second
device parts, each hinge element having a first segment, an
intermediate segment and a second segment and comprising: a first
hinged joint positioned at a junction of the first segment and the
intermediate segment and defining a first hinge axis, and a second
hinged joint positioned at a junction of the second segment and the
intermediate segment and defining a second hinge axis, the second
hinged joint being spaced apart from the first hinged joint by a
length of the intermediate segment, wherein the electronic device
is configured with an open position in which the first and second
device parts are rotated away from each other with the first and
second display sides arranged adjacent each other, the electronic
device being configured to exert an open position force tending to
keep the device in the open position.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Modern electronic devices, including mobile phones, tablets,
laptop computers, game controllers and other similar computing
devices, have evolved over recent years to the point where they now
possess a broad range of capabilities. They are not only capable of
placing and receiving mobile phone calls, multimedia messaging
(MMS), and sending and receiving email, but they can also access
the Internet, are GPS-enabled, possess considerable processing
power and large amounts of memory, and are equipped with
high-resolution color liquid crystal displays capable of detecting
touch input. As such, today's devices are general purpose computing
and telecommunication devices capable of running a multitude of
applications. For example, modern devices can run web browsers,
navigation systems, media players and gaming applications.
[0002] Along with these enhanced capabilities has come a demand for
larger displays to provide a richer user experience. Mobile phone
displays have increased in size to the point where they can now
consume almost an entire front surface of a phone. In some cases,
further increases in display size would detract from other
capabilities of the device, such as its pocket-size form
factor.
[0003] As a result, multi-part devices are becoming more popular.
Multi-part devices have two or more parts that are coupled
together, such as by a hinged or sliding arrangement. In many
multi-part devices, there are multiple displays that can be
positioned adjacent each other to expand the effective display
size. In the case of a two-part device with each part having a
single display, both displays are face-to-face in a closed position
so as to protect the displays. In an open position, the displays
are side by side to provide a maximum display area. In a fully-open
position, the dual displays are positioned back-to-back so the user
can simply rotate the device to view the opposing display.
[0004] Hinges for such dual-display devices are problematic.
Typically, the hinges can protrude from the device as it moved
between positions. As devices continually become thinner, hinges
need to be adapted to accommodate the thinner displays without
further protrusion from the back of the device as it is opened and
closed. Other problems include that the displays do not open and
close smoothly.
[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to provide improved hinges for
multiple display devices.
SUMMARY
[0006] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify
key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter,
nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed
subject matter.
[0007] Technologies are described for a hinge assembly for a
multi-part electronic device, including but not limited to an
electronic device with multiple display parts that are connected to
each other. The hinge assembly includes a pair of opposing living
hinge elements for connecting first and second parts of the
multi-part electronic device. Each hinge element has a first
segment, an intermediate segment and a second segment. Each hinge
element comprises a first hinged joint positioned at a junction of
the first segment and the intermediate segment and defining a first
hinge axis, and a second hinged joint positioned at a junction of
the second segment and the intermediate segment and defining a
second hinge axis. The second hinged joint is spaced apart from the
first hinged joint by a length of the intermediate segment. Each of
the first and second hinged joints is configured to permit 180
degrees of rotation.
[0008] In some implementations, the intermediate segment and the
first segment are rotatable relative to each other into a first
overlapped configuration in which the intermediate segment contacts
and overlaps the first segment, and the intermediate segment and
the second segment are rotatable relative to each other into a
second overlapped configuration in which the intermediate segment
contacts and overlaps the second segment. The first and second
overlapped configurations can include comprise complementing curved
or angled surfaces that nest together.
[0009] In some implementations, the first segment is configured for
fixed attachment to the first part of the device, the second
segment is configured for fixed attachment to the second part of
the device, and the intermediate segment extends freely between the
first segment and the second segment. The intermediate segment of a
first of the pair of opposing living hinge elements and the
intermediate segment of a second of the pair of opposing living
hinge elements can be arranged in a crossing relationship relative
to each other when viewed along one of the hinge axes, such that
the crossing relationship maintains a predetermined distance
between each first segment and the respective second segment.
[0010] The first segment and the second segment can have respective
openings sized for receiving fasteners to secure the first and
second segments to the respective first and second parts of the
electronic device. The length of the intermediate section can be
sized according to a depth of the first and second parts of the
electronic device. Each of the first segment and the second segment
can be configured for attachment to the electronic device at a
recessed mounting position recessed from respective outer
surfaces.
[0011] According to another implementation, a multi-part electronic
device comprises at least a first device part and a second device
part connected by a double acting hinge arrangement. The first
device part has a first display side and a first opposite side, and
the second part has a second display side and a second opposite
side. The electronic device has at least a first pair of opposing
living hinge elements for connecting the first and second device
parts. Each hinge element has a first segment, an intermediate
segment and a second segment. Each hinge element comprises a first
hinged joint positioned at a junction of the first segment and the
intermediate segment and defining a first hinge axis, and a second
hinged joint positioned at a junction of the second segment and the
intermediate segment and defining a second hinge axis. The second
hinged joint is spaced apart from the first hinged joint by a
length of the intermediate segment. Each of the first and second
hinged joints is configured to permit 180 degrees of rotation.
[0012] In some implementations, the first segment is configured for
fixed attachment to the first part of the device, the second
segment is configured for fixed attachment to the second part of
the device, and the intermediate segment extends freely between the
first segment and the second segment. In some implementations, the
first segment and the second segment are connected to the first and
second device parts, respectively, with fasteners.
[0013] In some implementations, each of the first segment and the
second segment is configured for attachment to the electronic
device at a recessed mounting position recessed from respective
outer surfaces.
[0014] In some implementations, the multi-part electronic device
includes a first magnetic element positioned in the first device
part and a second magnetic element positioned in the second device
part. The first and second magnetic elements are positioned
adjacent the living hinge elements and configured to attract each
other when the device is an open position and to apply a
maintaining force tending to keep the device in the open
position.
[0015] In some implementations, one of the first and second
magnetic elements comprises a magnet and the other comprises a
magnetic material. In some implementations, at least two soft iron
plates are positioned on opposite sides of the magnet and
configured to concentrate the magnet's magnetic flux generally
within the associated device part.
[0016] In another implementation, a multi-part electronic device
comprises at least a first device part and a second device part
connected by a hinge arrangement. The first device part has a first
display side and a first opposite side, and the second part has a
second display side and a second opposite side. The electronic
device has at least a first pair of opposing living hinge elements
for connecting the first and second device parts. Each hinge
element has a first segment, an intermediate segment and a second
segment. Each hinge element comprises a first hinged joint
positioned at a junction of the first segment and the intermediate
segment and defining a first hinge axis, and a second hinged joint
positioned at a junction of the second segment and the intermediate
segment and defining a second hinge axis. The second hinged joint
is spaced apart from the first hinged joint by a length of the
intermediate segment. The electronic device is configured with an
open position in which the first and second device parts are
rotated away from each other with the first and second display
sides arranged adjacent each other, and is configured to exert an
open position force tending to keep the device in the open
position.
[0017] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages
will become more apparent from the following detailed description,
which proceeds with reference to the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a multi-part electronic
shown in an open position and in several of its other possible
positions.
[0019] FIGS. 2A-2E are side elevation views of the multi-part
electronic device shown in a progression of positions from a closed
position to a fully open position.
[0020] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the multi-part electronic
device showing a pair of the hinge elements.
[0021] FIGS. 4-10 are section views in elevation of a portion of
the multi-part electronic device showing the hinge elements through
a range in positions from the closed position, through to the open
position and to a fully opened position.
[0022] FIGS. 11 and 12 are section views in elevation of a portion
of the multi-part electronic device in an implementation having
magnetic elements.
[0023] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a portion of the multi-part
electronic device of FIGS. 11 and 12.
[0024] FIGS. 14-16 are perspective views of an implementation of a
hinge element and showing the relationship between a pair of hinge
elements.
[0025] FIGS. 17A-17D are perspective views of another
implementation of the hinge elements, and FIG. 17E is an end view
of a device having the hinge elements of FIGS. 17A-17D.
[0026] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of an electronic or mobile
device that can be used with the technologies disclosed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an implementation of a
multi-part electronic device 102 having a first device part 104 and
a second device part 106 coupled together with one or more hinges,
shown schematically at 130, 132. The multi-part electronic device
102 can be, for example, a hand-held device, such as a smart phone,
a tablet, a portable computer (such as a lap-top), a game
controller or other type of computing or electronic device.
[0028] In some implementations, each device part 104, 106 includes
at least one display, and displays from both device parts 104, 106
can be positioned adjacent each other so the user can view the
multiple displays simultaneously, such as in an open position as
shown in FIG. 1 in solid lines. The hinges 130, 132 movably couple
the device parts 104, 106 together and allow them to be rotated
relative to each other, such as to alternative positions 140, 142
and 150, as just three examples. As described in greater detail
below, in some implementations the hinges allow for full rotation.
For purposes of brevity, the embodiments described herein are shown
for two-display devices, but can be extended to other multi-part
devices having three or more device parts.
[0029] As stated, the first and second device parts 110, 120 can
comprise multiple user interface screens, such as user interface
screens 160, 170, respectively, in the example of FIGS. 2A-2E. The
screens 160, 170 can be used for user input and/or display
purposes. The screens 160, 170 can also be replaced with a
plurality of smaller screens and/or other user interface
mechanisms, such as a keyboard, trackpad, joy stick, etc. Exemplary
implementations of the multi-part electronic device can comprise
such user interface mechanisms on any surfaces and on any
combination of surfaces as desired.
[0030] FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate, from side elevation views, different
positions in which the electronic device 102 can be arranged. In
the device 102, the first device part 104 comprises the screen 160
on a device face (shown in dark) and an opposing back surface 180.
Likewise, the second device part 106 is shown with the screen 170
on a device face (shown in dark) and an opposing back surface 182.
Coupled ends or edges of the first and second device parts 104, 106
are shown schematically at 190, 192, respectively. Points A and B
have been added to show the relative pivoting motion between the
first and second device parts 104, 106. FIG. 2A illustrates a
closed position in which the screens 160, 170 are positioned
face-to-face. In the closed position, with Point A above Point B,
the screens 160, 170 are protected and typically not visible to the
user.
[0031] FIG. 2B shows the first device 104 opened at an angle of
about 30 degrees with respect to the second display device 106.
Note that the Point A remains in a position above Point B. In FIG.
2C, the device 102 has been opened further, to an angle of
approximately 150 degrees, into nearly the open position of FIG. 1.
The FIG. 1 open position is also sometimes referred to as a tablet
mode in which the screens 160, 170 are generally positioned in a
same plane so as to give an appearance of a single unitary display.
The tablet mode represents a relative rotation of 180 degrees.
[0032] FIG. 2D shows that the device parts 104, 106 can be rotated
relative to each other such that the Point A is rotated past Point
B, and past the open position, so as to have a rotation angle of
about 230 degrees. In FIG. 2E, the electronic device is shown is in
positioned referred to herein as "a fully open position" in the
sense that both screens 160, 170 are positioned back-to-back and
are visible to the user. The fully open position of FIG. 2E
reflects 360 degrees of rotation of one of the device parts 104,
106 relative to the other, compared to the closed position in FIG.
2A. As can be seen, Point A now sits below Point B and the screens
160, 170 are outwardly facing.
[0033] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the multi-part electronic
device 102 having a hinge assembly 100 according to one
implementation that provides for the 360 degrees of rotation to
achieve the positions shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A-2E. As described in
more detail below, FIG. 3 shows a pair of hinge elements 110, 110,
which are arranged to have opposing orientations. For convenience,
the hinge elements 110, 110 can be arranged next to each other as
shown, although other spacings are possible. Although only a first
pair of hinge elements 110, 110 is shown in FIG. 3, typically at
least two pairs of hinge elements are used for devices in commonly
used sizes. It would of course be possible to configure a device
with three or more pairs of hinge elements.
[0034] FIGS. 4-10 are section views of a portion of the electronic
device 102 showing the hinge assembly 100 in elevation with the
first device part 104 and the second device part 106 in different
positions relative to each other. For clarity in illustration, only
one of the pair of hinge elements 110 is shown in FIGS. 4-10.
[0035] Each hinge element 110 can be described as having a first
segment 112, an intermediate segment 114 and a second segment 116
(see also FIG. 14, which shows a perspective view of a hinge
element 110 in isolation). The first segment 112 is attached to the
first device part 104, and typically defines a first end of the
hinge element 110. The second segment 116 is attached to the second
device part 106, and typically defines a second end of the hinge
element 110. There is a first hinged joint H1 defining a first
hinge axis about which the device parts can be rotated relative to
each other. This first hinged joint H1 defines where the
intermediate segment 114 begins. The intermediate segment 114 is
hingedly coupled to the first segment 112 at the first hinged joint
H1.
[0036] The intermediate segment ends at a second hinged joint H2 at
which the intermediate segment 114 is hingedly coupled to the
second segment 116. A second hinge axis is defined at the second
hinged joint H2. Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device 102 is
shown in the closed position with the screens 160, 170 facing each
other and defining a meeting plane M that contains the first hinge
axis and passes through the first hinged joint H1.
[0037] In some implementations, the hinge element 110 is configured
as a living hinge. Typically, a living hinge is a one-piece
construction of a single material, e.g., such as a web that can be
produced by molding and has defined geometry at selected points to
allow the material to flex, bend or fold, and thus provide the
desired relative rotation for two components joined by the hinge.
For example, the thickness of the material at hinging points can be
selected to determine the stiffness of the hinge. A living hinge
construction consolidates parts and makes assembly easier. It is
advantageous for the construction to consume minimal space and to
last for a specified design life. Suitable materials for a living
hinge construction include polypropylene and polyethylene, if long
life is desired. If a shorter life is acceptable, then materials
such as nylon and acetal can be used. In other implementations,
constructions other than a living hinge but also offering a
simplified approach can be used.
[0038] In implementations with a living hinge construction, the
first "hinged joint" H1 and the second "hinge joint" H2 fully
function as hinging points about which relative rotation can occur,
but unlike conventional hinges, they need not be comprised of
multiple discrete components or pieces.
[0039] Referring again to FIG. 4, the first hinged joint H1 is
located approximately at an approximate midpoint of the thinned
region 180 of the intermediate segment 114. To the left of the
thinned region 180, a relief or recess is provided, which prevents
a notch from forming when the first segment 112 and the
intermediate segment 114 are folded over each other (see, e.g., the
smooth area around the first hinged joint in FIG. 6-10). The second
hinged joint H2 is constructed in the same way as the first hinged
joint H1. As can be seen in FIG. 4, the second hinged joint H2, as
configured when the intermediate segment 114 is fully folded over
the second segment 116, only protrudes beyond the back 126 very
slightly, and is smoothly shaped without a notch or kinks. The
position of the hinge element 110 in FIG. 4 is shown in perspective
in FIG. 3 for the left of the two illustrated hinge elements 110,
110.
[0040] As also shown in FIG. 4, the hinge element 110 can be shaped
to have complementing surfaces, such as rounded or angled surfaces
(FIGS. 4-10; surfaces S in FIG. 16), such that the intermediate
segment 114 nests well with the portions of the first and second
segments with which it overlaps. As shown in FIG. 4, there is an
overlapped configuration of a portion of the intermediate segment
114 shown is overlapped with, and in contact or minimally separated
from, the second segment 116.
[0041] The first segment 112 and the second segment 116 can each
have openings sized to receive fasteners 128 for securing the first
and second segments 112, 116 to the first and second device parts
104, 106, respectively.
[0042] FIG. 5 shows the first device part 104 rotated away from the
second device part 106, and shows the hinge element 110 flexing as
rotation occurs about the first hinged joint H1. FIG. 6 shows a
further rotation of the first device part 104 relative to the
second device part 106.
[0043] FIG. 7 shows the first device part 104 and the second device
part 106 in the open position, following further rotation of the
first device part 104. In this position, the first segment 112 has
fully rotated relative to and is nested with the intermediate
segment 114. Stop surfaces, such as are shown in contact with each
other in FIG. 7, can be provided to ensure that over-rotation of
the first hinged joint H1 does not occur. Meanwhile, no motion has
occurred relative to the second hinged joint H2.
[0044] FIG. 8 shows a further rotation of the first device part 104
away from the open position and toward the second device part 106,
but the rotation occurs about the second hinged joint H2 and the
second hinge axis. Meanwhile, the first hinged joint and the
overlapped configuration of the intermediate segment 114 and the
first segment 112 remains unchanged. FIG. 9 shows a further
rotation about the second hinge axis in which the thinned region
180 of the intermediate segment 114 at the second hinged joint H2
is straightening. A second meeting plane N is defined as passing
through the second hinged joint H2.
[0045] FIG. 10 shows a final rotation of the first device part 104
relative to the second device part 106 to move the device into a
fully open position with the screens 160, 170 facing outwardly and
the backs 124, 126 facing each other. As can be seen by comparing
FIG. 10 to FIG. 7, the first device part 104 has been rotated 180
degrees about the second hinge axis at the second hinged joint H2.
Thus, the 180 degrees of rotation about the first hinged joint H1
and the further 180 degrees of rotation about the second hinged
joint H2 together make up the 360 degrees of relative rotation
between the first device part 104 and the second device part 106.
Thus, the device 102 can be described as having a double acting
hinge arrangement.
[0046] FIGS. 14-16 show the hinge element 110 in perspective on its
own (FIG. 14) and as part of a pair of opposing hinge elements
(FIGS. 15 and 16). In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in FIGS.
15 and 16, the pair of hinge elements can be formed to contact each
other. Further, each of the pair of hinge elements can define a
portion of common fastener openings 129 for the fasteners 128 (see,
e.g., FIG. 4). As best seen in FIG. 15, the oppositely oriented
hinge elements 110 allow for the desired rotation as described
above, but constrain each other from extending as shown in FIG. 14.
As seen in FIG. 15, one of the intermediate segments extends in a
direction A1 and the other of the intermediate segments extends in
the direction A2, and thus the intermediate elements are in a
crossing arrangement relative to each other when viewed along the
hinge axes.
[0047] FIGS. 11 and 12 show an electronic device 202 according to
another implementation in which force is used to bias the first
device part 204 and the second device part 206 into the open
position (FIG. 12). For example, one of the device parts 204, 206
can be fitted with a magnetic element (i.e., a magnet or a magnetic
material) and the other can be fitted with a corresponding magnetic
element. It would also be possible to use springs or another
approach to generating a force biasing the device into the open
position yet allowing the device to be folded with only low
force.
[0048] In the example of FIG. 11, the device 202 as shown is in
either the closed position or the fully open position, and the
hinged ends of the device parts 204, 206 are at the left side of
the figure. For clarity of illustration, the hinge assembly has
been omitted from FIGS. 11 and 12. In the example of FIG. 11, the
first device part 204 is provided with a magnet 210 at its hinged
end, and the second device part 206 is provided with a magnetic
material 208, such as, e.g., a soft iron plate, at its hinged end.
To enhance the magnetic force of the magnet 210, it can be
positioned between shielding members 212, 214, made of a
ferromagnetic material (e.g., soft iron plates). This arrangement
tends to confine the magnetic flux F close to the plates. At the
same time, this arrangement shields the magnet by reducing the
magnetic field. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one corner portion
of the device 202 showing the magnetic elements in relation to each
other and adjacent the hinge assembly.
[0049] In addition to or instead of the magnetic elements described
above, the device can be fitted with a mechanical catch arrangement
to retain the device in an open position. The catch can be
positioned in the area of the hinge assembly and engaged upon
moving the first and second device parts to the open position. A
release for the catch can be provided so the user can actuate it to
allow the device to be easily folded from the open position to
another position, such as the closed position or the fully open
position.
[0050] According to another implementation as shown schematically
in FIGS. 17A-17E, the hinge elements can be formed integrally with
cover or sheet elements. FIG. 17A shows a first sheet 310 and a
second sheet 312. Each of the first and second sheets 310, 312 has
two hinge elements 320. The dashed lines indicate the approximate
midpoints of the sheets 310, 312.
[0051] In FIG. 17B, the sheets 310, 312 have been folded into their
configuration for installation. The first sheet 310 has a first
sheet part 330 and a second sheet part 332, which are separated by
the dashed line. The second sheet has a third sheet part 334 and a
fourth sheet part 336.
[0052] In FIG. 17C, the sheet parts 330 and 332, and 334 and 336,
have been separated from each other, such as by a cutting
operation. Further, the first sheet part 330 has been aligned for
nesting in the direction of the arrows with the third sheet part
334 such that the respective hinge elements will be next to each
other and in a crossing arrangement. Similarly, the second sheet
part 332 has been aligned for nesting in the direction of the
arrows with the fourth sheet part 336 such that the respective
hinge elements will be next to each other and in a crossing
arrangement.
[0053] In FIG. 17D, the nested sheet part pairs 330, 334 and 332,
336 have been positioned over device parts (or device part
intermediates) 340, 342 of multi-part electronic device 338. The
sheet parts can adhered to the surfaces. If the sheet parts are
installed on exterior surfaces of the finished device parts, then
an optically clear adhesive can be used. In some implementations,
the sheet parts are installed over an intermediate stage of the
multi-part electronic device, such as prior to installation of its
screens. FIG. 17E is an end view of the electronic device 338
showing the crossing arrangement of hinge elements 320 created by
the nested sheet part pairs.
[0054] FIG. 18 is a system diagram depicting a representative
electronic or mobile device 900 according to any of the above
implementations, including a variety of optional hardware and
software components, shown generally at 902. Any components 902 in
the mobile device can communicate with any other component,
although not all connections are shown, for ease of illustration.
The mobile device can be any of a variety of computing devices
(e.g., mobile phone, smartphone, tablet, handheld computer,
Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), laptop computer, game controller,
etc.) and can allow wireless two-way communications with one or
more mobile communications networks 904, such as a cellular,
satellite, or other network.
[0055] The illustrated mobile device 900 can include a controller
or processor 910 (e.g., signal processor, microprocessor, ASIC, or
other control and processing logic circuitry) for performing such
tasks as signal coding, data processing, input/output processing,
power control, and/or other functions. An operating system 912 can
control the allocation and usage of the components 902 and support
for one or more application programs 914. The application programs
can include common mobile computing applications (e.g., email
applications, calendars, contact managers, web browsers, messaging
applications), or any other computing application. Functionality
for accessing an application store can also be used for acquiring
and updating application programs 914.
[0056] The illustrated mobile device 900 can include memory 920.
Memory 920 can include non-removable memory 922 and/or removable
memory 924. The non-removable memory 922 can include RAM, ROM,
flash memory, a hard disk, or other well-known memory storage
technologies. The removable memory 924 can include flash memory or
a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card, which is well known in GSM
communication systems, or other well-known memory storage
technologies, such as "smart cards." The memory 920 can be used for
storing data and/or code for running the operating system 912 and
the applications 914. Example data can include web pages, text,
images, sound files, video data, or other data sets to be sent to
and/or received from one or more network servers or other devices
via one or more wired or wireless networks. The memory 920 can be
used to store a subscriber identifier, such as an International
Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), and an equipment identifier,
such as an International Mobile Equipment Identifier (IMEI). Such
identifiers can be transmitted to a network server to identify
users and equipment.
[0057] The mobile device 900 can support one or more input devices
930, such as a touchscreen 932, microphone 934, camera 936,
physical keyboard 938 and/or trackball 940 and one or more output
devices 950, such as a speaker 952 and a display 954. Other
possible output devices can include a piezo electric element (or
other type of haptic device). Some devices can serve more than one
input/output function. For example, touchscreen 932 and display 954
can be combined in a single input/output device.
[0058] The input devices 930 can include a Natural User Interface
(NUI). An NUI is any interface technology that enables a user to
interact with a device in a "natural" manner, free from artificial
constraints imposed by input devices such as mice, keyboards,
remote controls, and the like. Examples of NUI methods include
those relying on speech recognition, touch and stylus recognition,
gesture recognition both on screen and adjacent to the screen, air
gestures, head and eye tracking, voice and speech, vision, touch,
gestures, and machine intelligence. Other examples of a NUI include
motion gesture detection using accelerometers/gyroscopes, facial
recognition, 3D displays, head, eye, and gaze tracking, immersive
augmented reality and virtual reality systems, all of which provide
a more natural interface, as well as technologies for sensing brain
activity using electric field sensing electrodes (EEG and related
methods). Thus, in one specific example, the operating system 912
or applications 914 can comprise speech-recognition software as
part of a voice user interface that allows a user to operate the
device 900 via voice commands. Further, the device 900 can comprise
input devices and software that allows for user interaction via a
user's spatial gestures, such as detecting and interpreting
gestures to provide input to a gaming application.
[0059] A wireless modem 960 can be coupled to an antenna (not
shown) and can support two-way communications between the processor
910 and external devices, as is well understood in the art. The
modem 960 is shown generically and can include a cellular modem for
communicating with the mobile communication network 904 and/or
other radio-based modems (e.g., Bluetooth 964 or Wi-Fi 962). The
wireless modem 960 is typically configured for communication with
one or more cellular networks, such as a GSM network for data and
voice communications within a single cellular network, between
cellular networks, or between the mobile device and a public
switched telephone network (PSTN).
[0060] The mobile device can further include at least one
input/output port 980, a power supply 982, a satellite navigation
system receiver 984, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS)
receiver, an accelerometer 986, and/or a physical connector 990,
which can be a USB port, IEEE 1394 (FireWire) port, and/or RS-232
port. The illustrated components 902 are not required or
all-inclusive, as any components can be deleted and other
components can be added.
[0061] The following paragraphs further describe implementations of
the hinge assembly, and multi-part electronic device:
[0062] A. A hinge assembly for a multi-part electronic device,
comprising:
[0063] a pair of opposing living hinge elements for connecting
first and second parts of the multi-part electronic device, each
hinge element having a first segment, an intermediate segment and a
second segment and comprising: [0064] a first hinged joint
positioned at a junction of the first segment and the intermediate
segment and defining a first hinge axis, and [0065] a second hinged
joint positioned at a junction of the second segment and the
intermediate segment and defining a second hinge axis, the second
hinged joint being spaced apart from the first hinged joint by a
length of the intermediate segment,
[0066] wherein each of first and second hinged joints is configured
to permit 180 degrees of rotation.
[0067] B. The hinge assembly of paragraph A, wherein the
intermediate segment and the first segment are rotatable relative
to each other into a first overlapped configuration in which the
intermediate segment contacts and overlaps the first segment, and
wherein the intermediate segment and the second segment are
rotatable relative to each other into a second overlapped
configuration in which the intermediate segment contacts and
overlaps the second segment.
[0068] C. The hinge assembly of paragraph B, wherein the first and
second overlapped configurations include comprise complementing
curved or angled surfaces that nest together.
[0069] D. The hinge assembly of any of paragraphs A-C, wherein the
first segment is configured for fixed attachment to the first part
of the device, the second segment is configured for fixed
attachment to the second part of the device, and the intermediate
segment extends freely between the first segment and the second
segment.
[0070] E. The hinge assembly of any of paragraphs A-D, wherein the
intermediate segment of a first of the pair of opposing living
hinge elements and the intermediate segment of a second of the pair
of opposing living hinge elements are arranged in a crossing
relationship relative to each other when viewed along one of the
hinge axes, and wherein the crossing relationship maintains a
predetermined distance between each first segment and the
respective second segment.
[0071] F. The hinge assembly of any of paragraphs A-E, wherein the
first segment and the second segment have respective openings sized
for receiving fasteners to secure the first and second segments to
the respective first and second parts of the electronic device.
[0072] G. The hinge assembly of any of paragraphs A-F, wherein each
of the first segment and the second segment is configured for
attachment to the electronic device at a recessed mounting position
recessed from an outer surface of the electronic device.
[0073] H. The hinge assembly of any of paragraphs A-G, wherein each
of the first segment and the second segment comprises a sheet
configured for attachment to an outer surface of the electronic
device.
[0074] I. A multi-part electronic device, comprising:
[0075] at least a first device part and a second device part
connected by a double acting hinge arrangement, the first device
part having a first display side and a first opposite side, and the
second part having a second display side and a second opposite
side, and
[0076] at least a first pair of opposing living hinge elements for
connecting the first and second device parts, each hinge element
having a first segment, an intermediate segment and a second
segment and comprising: [0077] a first hinged joint positioned at a
junction of the first segment and the intermediate segment and
defining a first hinge axis, and [0078] a second hinged joint
positioned at a junction of the second segment and the intermediate
segment and defining a second hinge axis, the second hinged joint
being spaced apart from the first hinged joint by a length of the
intermediate segment,
[0079] wherein each of first and second hinged joints is configured
to permit 180 degrees of rotation.
[0080] J. The multi-part electronic device of paragraph I, wherein
the intermediate segment and the first segment are rotatable
relative to each other into a first overlapped configuration in
which the intermediate segment contacts and overlaps the first
segment, and wherein the intermediate segment and the second
segment are rotatable relative to each other into a second
overlapped configuration in which the intermediate segment contacts
and overlaps the second segment.
[0081] K. The multi-part electronic device of paragraph J, wherein
the first and second overlapped configurations include comprise
complementing curved or angled surfaces that nest together.
[0082] L. The multi-part electronic device of any of paragraphs
I-K, wherein the first segment is configured for fixed attachment
to the first part of the device, the second segment is configured
for fixed attachment to the second part of the device, and the
intermediate segment extends freely between the first segment and
the second segment.
[0083] M. The multi-part electronic device of any of paragraphs
I-L, wherein the intermediate segment of a first of the pair of
opposing living hinge elements and the intermediate segment of a
second of the pair of opposing living hinge elements are arranged
in a crossing relationship relative to each other when viewed along
one of the hinge axes, and wherein the crossing relationship
maintains a predetermined distance between each first segment and
the respective second segment.
[0084] N. The multi-part electronic device of any of paragraphs
I-M, wherein the first segment and the second segment are connected
to the first and second device parts, respectively, with
fasteners.
[0085] O. The multi-part electronic device of any of paragraphs
I-N, wherein the length of the intermediate section is sized
according to a depth of the first and second device parts.
[0086] P. The multi-part electronic device of any of paragraphs
I-O, wherein each of the first segment and the second segment is
configured for attachment to the electronic device at a recessed
mounting position recessed from respective outer surfaces.
[0087] Q. The multi-part electronic device of any of paragraphs
I-P, further comprising a first magnetic element positioned in the
first device part and a second magnetic element positioned in the
second device part, wherein the first and second magnetic elements
are positioned adjacent the living hinge elements and configured to
attract each other when the device is an open state and to apply a
restraining force tending to keep the device in the open state.
[0088] R. The multi-part electronic device of paragraph Q, wherein
one of the first and second magnetic elements comprises a magnet
and the other comprises a magnetic material.
[0089] S. The multi-part electronic device of any of paragraphs
R-Q, further comprising at least two soft iron plates positioned on
opposite sides of the magnet and configured to concentrate the
magnet's magnetic force toward the magnetic material positioned
oppositely.
[0090] T. A multi-part electronic device, comprising:
[0091] at least a first device part and a second device part
connected by a hinge arrangement, the first device part having a
first display side and a first opposite side, and the second part
having a second display side and a second opposite side, and at
least a first pair of opposing living hinge elements for connecting
the first and second device parts, each hinge element having a
first segment, an intermediate segment and a second segment and
comprising: [0092] a first hinged joint positioned at a junction of
the first segment and the intermediate segment and defining a first
hinge axis, and [0093] a second hinged joint positioned at a
junction of the second segment and the intermediate segment and
defining a second hinge axis, the second hinged joint being spaced
apart from the first hinged joint by a length of the intermediate
segment,
[0094] wherein the electronic device is configured with an open
position in which the first and second device parts are rotated
away from each other with the first and second display sides
arranged adjacent each other, the electronic device being
configured to exert an open position force tending to keep the
device in the open position.
[0095] In view of the many possible embodiments to which the
disclosed principles may be applied, it should be recognized that
the illustrated embodiments are only preferred examples and should
not be taken as limiting in scope. Rather, the scope of protection
is defined by the following claims. We therefore claim all that
comes within the scope and spirit of these claims.
* * * * *